Simulation of Automated Data Collection in Buildings

Abstract

Manual data collection is slow, inaccurate, and produces vast amounts of paperwork. Automated data collection (ADC) is accepted as a more efficient process; however, little work has been done in quantifying the efficiency increase. This paper describes the simulation of ADC in buildings using the Automated Data Collection (ADAC) model. ADAC facilitates multiple collectors, segregated or common domains, and labor resource movement at discrete intervals. ADAC is designed with the use of object-oriented principles and is implemented in the SLAM II simulation software environment. A case study of one of the many office buildings at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation's (CSIRO) Division of Building, Construction and Engineering is included. The case study illustrates that simulation of different scenarios allows for analysis and comparison of equipment, labor, time and configuration requirements.